Tired of the holiday chaos? Looking for a different kind of winter getaway? You’re in luck! We’ve curated the ultimate list of the 10 best national parks to visit in December.
As the calendar flips to December and a crisp chill fills the air, the stage is set for an adventure that goes beyond the traditional holiday festivities and snowy landscapes.
Don’t get us wrong—we adore the holiday lights and the cozy hot cocoa vibes of the winter season. But did you know that December also brings a lesser-known allure? It offers the chance to experience some of the United States’ most breathtaking national parks in an entirely new way!
Plus, in places where the summer heat can be relentless, December brings an opportunity to explore without scorching temperatures and bustling crowds.
We know this because we’ve spent most of our adult lives traversing the nooks and crannies of the USA’s finest National Parks. We’ve checked off 48 out of 63 so far (you could say we’ve practically earned honorary ranger status)! So, believe us when we say winter adds a whole new charm!
In this guide, we’re sharing the ultimate guide to the 10 best national parks to visit in December. Plus tons of helpful logistical information to help you plan your trip!
Quick disclaimer About Our Monthly National Parks Series
This blog post is part of a monthly series highlighting the best national parks to visit each month. Throughout this series, we’ll cover every single National Park in the US (that we have personally visited), ensuring each park receives its spotlight at least once. However, some will make multiple appearances throughout the year, giving you a chance to witness their transformation across the seasons!
While we may not have explored every single National Park in the US just yet, you can trust that our recommendations have been carefully handpicked. Keep in mind that the list we provide is just the tip of the iceberg, as there are countless best National Parks to visit in December beyond what we’ve suggested here.
Visiting the national parks in a different month?
- Visiting the national parks in a different month?
- 1. Big Bend National Park
- 2. Biscayne National Park
- 3. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
- 4. Death Valley National Park
- 5. Everglades National Park
- 6. Haleakala National Park
- 7. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- 8. Joshua Tree National Park
- 9. Pinnacles National Park
- 10. Saguaro National Park
Tips for visiting the National Parks in December
Before You Go: Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the park’s regulations, permits, and reservations in advance. Popular parks tend to fill up quickly. So reserving campsites or activities ahead of time can save you from potential headaches later on.
Get Your Maps Ready: Most parks have unreliable cell coverage. It’s a good idea to pre-download maps for smoother navigation.
Want to get 30% off an AllTrails+ membership? Click this link or use our code aplusk30 (you must redeem this code on the website, not the app)!
We use AllTrails+ on every single hike and it is the most helpful hiking tool out there! Some of the features we love are offline maps (so we can navigate even without cell service), wrong-turn alerts, and its 3D maps feature, so we can get a feel for trails before we hike.
Explore with the America the Beautiful Pass: If you’re up for exploring multiple parks, grab the America the Beautiful Pass for just $80. It gives you access to an impressive 2,000 federal recreation sites, including the National Parks.
Follow Pet Guidelines: We know your furry friends are important, but remember that each park has its own rules for pets. Some areas might be off-limits to pets to protect the local wildlife and scenery. So, plan ahead and make accommodations for your pups.
Leave No Trace: Let’s make sure we preserve the beauty of these parks for generations to come! Be sure to clean up after yourself, stick to marked paths, and minimize your impact on the environment.
Best national parks to visit in December
1. Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is situated on the “big bend” of the Rio Grande River, which forms the boundary between the United States and Mexico. This distinctive curve in the river’s course is the defining feature that gives the national park its name!
This remote national park, with only about 400,000 visitors annually, boasts a variety of epic landscapes. These range from dry desert landscapes to towering mountain peaks. One notable feature is Santa Elena Canyon, characterized by its impressive cliffs along the Rio Grande River. The Chisos Mountains, the park’s centerpiece, also add to the diversity, housing cacti and providing a habitat for wildlife such as desert bighorn sheep and javelinas.
Where is Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is a vast and remote national park located in Southwest Texas, along the U.S.-Mexico border. The park covers an expansive area of approximately 801,163 acres within the Chihuahuan Desert, making it the 15th largest national park in the United States.
Why Visit in December
The scorching summer heat has mellowed, and the weather becomes pleasantly mild, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. With fewer crowds compared to peak seasons, you can explore the park with ease. One of the park’s remarkable features is its designation as an International Dark Sky Park. In December, with longer nights, you can see tons of stars, constellations, and the Milky Way!
Weather in December
The weather in Big Bend National Park in December is mild and sunny, with highs of 66°F (19°C) and lows of 38°F (3°C). The temperature can vary greatly depending on the elevation, with the Chisos Mountains being significantly cooler than the desert floor.
Best Things to Do Big Bend National Park
Enjoy a soak in Rio Grande Hot Springs: Probably one of the best things to do in Big Bend is soaking in the hot springs! The hike is about a half-mile long and can be accessed via the Big Bend Hot Springs Trail. The water is hot, with a temperature of 105°F (40°C).
Scenic Drives: The park features a couple of really scenic drives, including the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and the Camino del Rio.
Hike the Lost Mine Trail: This is a moderate 4.8-mile out-and-back hike with an elevation gain of 1,131 ft. with stunning 360-degree views of the Chisos Mountains.
Know Before You Go
Know your vehicle’s capabilities: While many key attractions are accessible via paved roads with two-wheel-drive cars, Big Bend offers rugged paths that demand four-wheel-drive (not all-wheel-drive) and 10-inch clearance vehicles.
Parking’s a real challenge at Big Bend’s trailheads: The park is vast, and its popularity can lead to limited parking availability, especially during busy seasons. It’s best to arrive early in the day to secure a parking spot at popular trailheads.
Limited gas stations: Big Bend is bigger than the entire state of Rhode Island! There are only two gas stations within Big Bend National Park. One is located at Panther Junction, and the other is at Rio Grande Village.
Learn more about Big Bend National Park
Blog post
The ULTIMATE West Texas Road Trip: Marfa and Big Bend
YouTube video
Big Bend National Park + Marfa, TX | US Road Trip Days 4-7
2. Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park is renowned for preserving one of the largest reef systems in the world, with 95% of its area submerged in water!
The park’s commitment extends to the protection of the northernmost segment of the Florida Keys, the stunning Biscayne Bay, and the encircling offshore barrier reefs. Plus, it is home to the longest stretch of mangrove forest on Florida’s East Coast!
Its extensive coral reefs teem with vibrant marine life, and December offers favorable conditions for snorkeling and diving. Its unique blend of underwater wonders, vibrant coral reefs, and lush islands make it a paradise for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path escape.
Where is Biscayne National Park
Stretching over 170,000 acres, Biscayne National Park is located in southern Florida, specifically in Homestead, about 20 minutes south of Miami. The Dante Fascell Visitor Center, the only part of the park accessible by car, is on the mainland.
Why Visit in December
While Biscayne National Park is a year-round destination, the winter season is considered one of the best times to visit the park! It’s a great time to explore shipwrecks, swim alongside sea turtles and check out colorful coral reefs.
Weather in December
Biscayne National Park experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. In December, during the dry season, the weather is mild and pleasant, with highs of 76°F (24°C) and lows of 72°F (22°C).
Best Things to do Biscayne National Park
Explore the Convoy Point Jetty Trail: This 0.8-mile out-and-back trail treats you to gorgeous vistas of Biscayne Bay. It’s a quick walk by the mangrove-lined shore, leading you straight to the Colonial Bird Protection Area at the jetty’s end!
Boca Chita Lighthouse: Boca Chita Key is an island that is home to the Boca Chita Lighthouse, a historic gem erected in the 1930s by industrialist and philanthropist Mark C. Honeywell. From the observation deck of the 65-foot-tall lighthouse, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view encompassing islands, the bay, the ocean, and the Miami skyline!
Snorkel or Dive the Off-Shore Reefs: If you’re into snorkeling, Biscayne’s coral reefs are not only colorful, but they are home to a diverse array of marine creatures. And if you’re looking for awesome offshore reefs to explore, check out Long Reef with the Mandalay Wreck, Ball Buoy Reef, Anniversary Reef, and the Fowey Rocks Lighthouse area. You can also explore old stilt houses at Stiltsville!
Know Before You Go
Only Accessible by Boat: If you want to see the islands, reefs, and other incredible natural spots in Biscayne National Park, you’ll need to hop on a boat. Authorized boat tours operating in Biscayne National Park include Diver’s Paradise, Explore Miami Boat Rental, and Island Queen Cruises.
Plan Ahead and Make Reservations: Certain activities, like guided tours and boat rentals, might have limited slots due to their popularity. Making reservations ahead of time gives you the best shot at snagging these experiences and making the most out of your visit.
Learn more about Mammoth Cave National Park
We planned to spend a day here, but Kathryn took a tumble early in the day and injured her hand. You can see the attempted adventure below
YouTube Video
Mammoth Cave Adventure
3. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
New Mexico’s Carlsbad Caverns National Park has a whole world hiding below the surface, and it’s seriously mind-blowing!
With a collection of over 100 limestone caves to explore, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is home to some of the biggest underground chambers and hidden passageways you’ll find in North America. These things are massive, with colossal stalactites and stalagmites everywhere!
But that’s not even the coolest part. One of the absolute must-see sights at the park involves Brazilian free-tailed bats. These little critters live in the hundreds here (and they put on quite a show!)
Where is Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is located in the southeastern corner of New Mexico, near the base of the Guadalupe Mountains. The park’s unique geography encompasses over 119 limestone caves, including the renowned Carlsbad Cavern itself.
Why Visit in December
While the surface temperatures might be cooler, the cave’s interior remains at a constant, mild temperature. This means you can escape the chilly weather outside and explore the underground formations, echoing chambers, and hidden crevices that the caverns have to offer.
Weather in December
December brings winter weather to Carlsbad Caverns, where temperatures can get quite cold. Daytime highs are around 50°F (10°C), and nights can dip to 30°F (-1°C) or lower, possibly bringing snow later in the month. However, inside the caverns, the temperature remains a comfortable 56ºF (13ºC) all year round.
Best Things to do Carlsbad Caverns National Park
The Big Room: The Big Room is the crown jewel of the cavern system. This massive chamber is adorned with an astounding variety of stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, and columns.
Kings Palace Tour: This is a guided tour with a ranger that lasts 1.5 hours. You’ll visit four beautifully decorated rooms and go all the way down to the deepest part of the cavern. It’s a staggering 830 feet (253 meters) below the desert’s surface!
Know Before You Go
Wear the Right Gear: Wear closed-toe shoes with good traction for the wet and steep parts of the Big Room and Natural Entrance trails. You might also want to carry a light jacket or sweater since the cave’s temperature stays around 56ºF (13ºC) all year.
No Food or Drinks Inside: Rangers remind visitors that only plain water is allowed in Carlsbad Cavern. This helps avoid attracting wildlife, littering, and cave contamination.
Doggy Day Care: Carlsbad Caverns offers an onsite dog day care, providing a safe place for your furry friend while you explore. Just remember to bring their vaccination records along, and note that leaving dogs in cars during your cave visit is not allowed.
Learn more about Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Blog post
One Day at Carlsbad Caverns National Park
YouTube video
Weekend in New Mexico: White Sands, Las Cruces, & Carlsbad Caverns National Park
4. Death Valley National Park
Death Valley is known for its extreme conditions, being one of the hottest places on Earth, the lowest place in North America, and the driest place in the United States. (During the summer, Furnace Creek in Death Valley can get incredibly hot, even going above 120 degrees Fahrenheit!) But don’t let its reputation scare you away! Winter is actually a nicer time to explore the park. You’ll find all kinds of diverse landscapes here, like salt flats, sand dunes, deep canyons, mountains, and even a waterfall!
Where is Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park is located on the southeastern border of California, near Nevada. Spanning 3.4 million acres, Death Valley holds the title of the largest national park in the contiguous United States. Keep in mind that due to its vastness, you might not see everything in a single visit.
Why Visit in December
While Death Valley is known for its extreme heat, December offers milder weather for hiking. Plus, the huge salt flats at Badwater Basin become magical during sunrise and sunset, with cracked salt patterns against the stunning Panamint Mountains.
Weather in December
December brings a break from Death Valley’s scorching summer heat. During the day, it’s around 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C). Nights get chilly, dropping to 30°F to 40°F (-1°C to 4°C), even colder in higher spots.
Best Things to Do Death Valley National Park
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: Named after the mesquite trees that thrive in harsh desert conditions, these dunes are situated near Stovepipe Wells in the northern part of Death Valley National Park. Explore the dunes at sunrise for incredible photo opportunities!
Zabriskie Point and Golden Canyon: Zabriskie Point offers iconic vistas of the badlands’ intricate erosion patterns. Golden Canyon, accessed nearby, provides a scenic hike, about 6.4 miles round-trip, into colorful rock formations.
Badwater Basin: This salt flat, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level, offers surreal hexagonal salt polygons. A short, accessible walkway allows visitors to experience the unique salt formations.
Know Before You Go
Limited cell service: Phone coverage is scarce, so be sure to download Google Maps for offline use before you enter the park.
Carry plenty of water and your own food: You can refill at the Furnace Creek visitor center and Stovepipe Wells ranger station, but there’s no water at trailheads or entrances.
Keep your gas tank full: There are just 3 gas stations in Death Valley, and only 2 have diesel. Gas in the park also is pricier due to its massive size (over 800 miles of road). During our visit, it was over $7 a gallon, but has gotten as high as $10. So we suggest filling up before entering the park!
Learn more about Death Valley National Park
Blog posts
The ULTIMATE guide to visiting Death Valley National Park (Things to do + itinerary options)
How to hike Golden Canyon at Death Valley National Park (+ Red Cathedral & Gower Gulch)
Hiking the Mosaic Canyon Trail in Death Valley National Park
How to hike to Darwin Falls in Death Valley National Park (A year round waterfall in the desert!)
YouTube videos
The ULTIMATE 3 days in DEATH VALLEY National Park!
An EPIC drive to Death Valley (Ash Meadows, Wild Burros, Rhyolite GHOST town, & Titus Canyon!)
5. Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park stands as a truly unique sanctuary of wilderness. Its sprawling landscape is adorned with vast marshes, intricate mangrove forests, expansive sawgrass prairies, and a multitude of diverse estuarine ecosystems. Often referred to as the “River of Grass,” this national park boasts the distinction of being the largest tropical wilderness of its kind within the United States!
Where is Everglades National Park
Nestled on the southern tip of Florida, Everglades National Park spans 1.5 million acres. It stretches from the Gulf of Mexico to the Florida Bay. The park is easily accessible from major cities like Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
Why Visit in December
The Everglades features a tropical climate, remaining warm and humid throughout the year, with distinct wet and dry seasons. December is part of the dry season with mild and pleasant weather and fewer mosquitoes, which makes the park way more enjoyable! During this time, be prepared for Everglades National Park to be quite busy.
Weather in December
The weather is pleasantly mild, making it a comfortable time to enjoy outdoor activities without the scorching heat of summer. You can expect average highs of 77°F (25°C) and lows of 53°F (12°C).
Best Things to Do Everglades National Park
Bike Through Shark Valley: Pedal at your own pace on the 15-mile loop trail through Shark Valley. Despite the name, you won’t spot any sharks here, but you’ll encounter plenty of alligators! Stop at the observation tower midway through for stunning 360-degree views of the Everglades.
Hike the Anhinga Trail: This 0.8-mile loop trail takes you through a sawgrass marsh where you can catch sight of alligators, turtles, anhingas, herons, and egrets!
Get a Smoothie from “Robert is Here”: Although technically outside the park, a visit to “Robert is Here” is a fun addition to your Everglades trip. This iconic Florida fruit stand offers rare and exotic made-to-order tropical fruit smoothies from none other than Robert himself.
Know Before You Go
The park has four entrance options: Homestead, which gives access to Flamingo Visitor Center and Royal Palm area; Shark Valley, known for its “River of Grass” landscape; and Ernest F. Coe, featuring the Anhinga Trail.
You need an airboat to explore most of the Everglades: These are flat-bottomed boats with huge fan propellers at the back that help protect the wet prairies. Check out one of the three official airboat tour providers in the park: Coopertown Airboats, Everglades Safari Park, and Gator Park.
Seriously, don’t go for a swim: The calm waters might look inviting, but guess what’s lurking beneath the surface? Alligators, crocodiles, snakes, and a whole bunch of potentially dangerous creatures.
Learn more about Everglades National Park
Blog post
7 FUN things to do in the Everglades (Florida)
YouTube video
The BEST day at Everglades National Park! 🐊 (Hiking, biking, milkshakes, & MORE)
6. Haleakala National Park
On the beautiful island of Maui in Hawaii, you’ll discover Haleakalā National Park, a breathtaking place in the United States. Its name, “Haleakalā,” means “house of the sun” in Hawaiian, and that’s just perfect because of the incredible sunrises and sunsets you can see here!
One of the most famous things in the park is the huge volcanic crater called Haleakalā Crater. It was shaped by thousands of years of erosion and lava. The highest part of the crater is over 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) up from the sea!
The varying elevations within the park result in distinct climate zones, allowing for the coexistence of ecosystems and landscapes, including volcanic craters, subalpine and tropical rainforests, as well as unique flora and fauna.
Where is Haleakala National Park
Situated on the island of Maui in the state of Hawaii, Haleakala National Park spans 33,265 acres of diverse terrain. The park is home to the majestic Haleakala Crater, a dormant volcano that forms the centerpiece of the landscape.
Why Visit in December
December marks the onset of the dry season in Maui, making it an ideal time to explore Haleakala National Park. The weather is relatively cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities, and the clear skies offer unparalleled visibility for stargazing and sunrise views. Plus, this is the time of year when there are fewer tourists, so you can enjoy the destination without the crowds.
Weather in December
The weather in Haleakala National Park in December is generally mild and pleasant, with average high temperatures of 76°F (25°C) and low temperatures of 72°F (22°C). However, it is important to note that the temperature can vary greatly depending on the elevation.
At the summit of Haleakala, which is over 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) high, the average temperature in December is 40°F (4°C). It is also important to be aware of the possibility of rain or snow in December, especially at higher elevations.
Best Things to Do Haleakala National Park
Catch the Sunrise at Haleakalā Summit: One of the most iconic experiences is watching the sunrise from Haleakalā. Named “House of the Sun” in Hawaiian, it’s a massive shield volcano constituting over 75% of Maui and ranks among Earth’s largest dormant volcanoes, with the summit at 10,023 feet.
Hike into the Haleakalā Crater: Explore the immense Haleakalā Crater, spanning over 7.5 miles in length, 2.5 miles in width, and plunging 2,300 feet deep. Hike the Halemau’u Trail or the Sliding Sands Trail (also known as the Keonehe’ehe’e Trail).
Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls: Located south of the park’s famous crater, along the Road to Hana, is a lush, forested region of the park. And in this section you can find one of our favorite hikes on the island, the Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls. This hike takes you through a bamboo forest to a jawdropping waterfall!
Know Before You Go
Reserve Your Sunrise Spot: Secure your sunrise experience by booking ahead, as spots fill up quickly. Visit the National Park Service website for reservation details.
Be Prepared for Fog: Fog often surrounds Haleakala National Park due to its height and distinct weather. We’ve tried to catch the sunrise a couple of times, but no luck so far! Both of our experiences were completely socked in. In the future, we may skip sunrise and pick a sunny day for sunset.
Be Mindful of Altitude Effects: The high altitude of the park’s summit can cause altitude-related symptoms like shortness of breath or dizziness. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and watch for signs of altitude sickness. And make sure to pack layers!
Learn more about Haleakala National Park
We have been to Haleakala National Park twice for sunrise, but unfortunately it was completely fogged out both times, so we never created any content about it.
7. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Situated on the Big Island of Hawaii in the United States, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has been around since 1916, making it one of the oldest national parks in the country! Right at its core are the active Kīlauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes.
Beyond the volcanoes, the park presents a wealth of other attractions. Visitors can explore subterranean passages known as Lava Tubes, delve into archaeological sites that hint at past human habitation, observe ancient petroglyphs etched into rocks, and explore lush rainforests!
Where is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian islands. Stretching across an area of over 300,000 acres, the park boasts a dynamic range of ecosystems and geological formations.
Why Visit in December
December might seem like an unconventional time to visit a volcanic wonderland, but the park sees fewer crowds during this time, and December provides a relatively cooler climate for hiking trails that offer up-close views of volcanic craters.
Weather in December
The average weather in December at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is mild and pleasant, with highs of 73°F (23°C) and lows of 65°F (18°C), with the temperature varying greatly depending on the elevation. The summit of Kīlauea, which is over 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) high, has an average temperature of 58°F (14°C) in December. Be prepared for occasional rain showers, as December marks the start of the wetter season.
Best Things to do Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hike the Kilauea Iki Trail: This 3.2-mile loop trail takes you through lush rainforests and a solidified lava lake before traversing the rim and looking into the heart of a volcanic crater.
Thurston Lava Tube: Step into Thurston Lava Tube, or Nahuku, a tunnel created by flowing lava that cooled and solidified. The hike is a short 0.4-mile loop trail through a rainforest, where you can see lava formations like stalactites and stalagmites inside.
Chain of Craters Road: Drive along the Chain of Craters Road to see ancient petroglyphs, lava fields, and breathtaking coastal views. The road stretches for 19 miles and ends at the point where lava flows into the ocean, creating tons of steam!
Know Before You Go
Stay Safe While Viewing Lava: Stick to the park’s safety rules and guidelines when observing lava. Remember, volcanic zones can be risky, so remain in marked viewing spots.
Watch for Lava Flow Closures: With ongoing eruptions from Kilauea, an active volcano since 1983, be aware of potential road closures due to lava flow. Check the NPS website before visiting.
Learn more about Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Blog post
One Day at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Itinerary
YouTube video
Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (Our 20th National Park!) | Big Island Day 5
8. Joshua Tree National Park
Tucked away in the vast expanse of California’s arid desert landscape, Joshua Tree National Park draws its name from none other than the Joshua Tree itself (Yucca brevifolia), a peculiar-looking tree with spiky leaves that dot the landscape.
Aside from the unique flora that calls Joshua Tree home, this national park is also filled with sprawling desert vistas and striking rock formations. Notably, the park’s massive granite monoliths make it a magnet for rock climbers around the world. Plus, you can check out a significant portion of this park in just a single day!
Where is Joshua Tree National Park
Located in Southern California, Joshua Tree National Park spans the transition zone between the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert. This national park covers approximately 800,000 acres of diverse desert terrain, offering a blend of desert flora, unique geological formations, and stunning vistas.
Why Visit in December
Despite the season, Joshua Tree has abundant sunlight and draws fewer crowds. This quieter time of year brings a sense of solitude to a location typically bustling with visitors. For those unfazed by the near-freezing nighttime lows, camping is also great during this time.
Weather in December
The average weather in December in Joshua Tree National Park is moderately chilly, with highs of 61°F (16°C) and lows of 39°F (4°C). The cooler temperatures make it an ideal time for hikes and rock climbing!
Best Things to do Joshua Tree National Park
Cholla Cactus Garden (at sunrise or sunset): Just 0.25 miles round trip, this trail promises beautiful desert sunrises and sunsets perfect for photography! However, exercise caution as the trail is renowned for its perilous Cholla Cacti with large, prickly needles, so watch your step!
Arch Rock: This 1.2-mile hike offers the chance to witness a 30-foot-high arch within the park. While requiring a bit of bouldering off the nature trail, this short adventure rewards you with a unique shot and an enjoyable scramble through rocks.
Ryan Mountain: The Ryan Mountain hike is only 3 miles long, but it has 1,000 feet of elevation gain, so it’s considered strenuous. But the views from the top are worth it! You can see the whole park, from the towering Joshua trees to the craggy mountains.
Know Before You Go
If you’re planning on camping, be prepared for freezing nights: Bring layers and maybe even a sleeping bag liner. (Airbnbs are a great option for lodging near the park.)
Joshua Tree National Park is basically in the middle of nowhere: Fill up on gas before you enter the park. There are no gas stations inside the park, and you could potentially be driving for 2-3 hours (or more) within the park, depending on where you plan on visiting.
Bring plenty of water: There is very little water available within the park, so you’ll need to bring all the water you’ll need with you. Park rangers recommend at least 2 liters per person per day.
Learn more about Joshua Tree National Park
Blog post
The Best Things to do in Joshua Tree National Park (+ a one day itinerary!)
YouTube video
One Day in Joshua Tree National Park (Ryan Mountain, Keys View, Cholla Cactus Garden, & MORE!)
9. Pinnacles National Park
At the crossroads of the Gabilan Mountains and the San Andreas Fault lies Pinnacles National Park. This rugged landscape is characterized by verdant valleys, fascinating talus caves, abrupt limestone spires, and massive crags that seem to come out of nowhere!
Pinnacles’ iconic rock formations are a result of volcanic activity millions of years ago. The park’s east side is home to massive monoliths, remnants of a once-active volcano that has since migrated 195 miles to the northwest due to the Pacific Plate’s movement.
Where is Pinnacles National Park
Situated in central California’s Salinas Valley, Pinnacles National Park, the state’s smallest national park is just 270 miles northwest of Los Angeles and 130 miles southeast of San Francisco.
Why Visit in December
Pinnacles National Park boasts unique talus caves formed by massive boulders. December offers comfortable temperatures for exploring these caves, which are home to fascinating rock formations and delicate ecosystems.
Weather in December
The average weather in December in Pinnacles National Park is cool and wet, with highs of 60°F (16°C) and lows of 42°F (6°C).
Best Things to do Pinnacles National Park
Bear Gulch Cave, High Peaks Trail, & Condor Gulch Trail: This is our top pick for an adventure-packed hike! These caves were formed by massive boulders that wedged between narrow canyons, creating intricate passageways to explore. This loop covers approximately 5.5 miles with 1,630 feet of elevation gain.
Hike Balconies cave: This is a unique 2.4-mile talus cave system that was formed by massive boulders tightly wedged together, creating narrow passages. Be prepared for some crouching, scrambling, and using your hands to traverse the cave.
Spot California Condors: California condors are gargantuan vultures and one of the largest flying birds in the world! Sporting an impressive 9.5-foot wingspan and weighing up to 20 pounds, these birds can soar and glide effortlessly for hours without flapping their wings, which is seriously impressive!
Know Before You Go
Two separate entrances: The west entrance is around 10 miles northeast of Soledad, California. It’s a narrow, winding, one-lane road that’s not good for RVs or big vehicles. The east entrance is about 35 miles southeast of Hollister, California. Just remember, there aren’t any roads inside the park that connect these entrances.
Learn more about Pinnacles National Park
Blog post
The BEST Day Hike in Pinnacles National Park
YouTube video
Hiking the Condor Gulch, High Peaks, & Bear Gulch Loop at Pinnacles National Park (California)
10. Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park, located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, is renowned for its iconic feature—the saguaro cactus (Carnegiea gigantea). These monumental cacti can stretch up to 50 feet in height and have lifespans that exceed a century! It’s exclusive to the Sonoran Desert and is famed for its remarkable size and distinctive branching arms.
Beyond the saguaros, the park is home to a diverse collection of desert flora and fauna, including javelinas, coyotes, and a plethora of bird species. You can also find petroglyphs there, which are ancient carvings made by the Hohokam people.
Where is Saguaro National Park
Situated in southeastern Arizona, Saguaro National Park encompasses two distinct districts separated by the city of Tucson. The Tucson Mountain District to the west and the Rincon Mountain District to the east. Both districts are easily accessible from Tucson, making them ideal day-trip destinations.
Why Visit in December
Contrary to the barren image often associated with deserts, Saguaro National Park flourishes in December. December is a prime time for birdwatching in the park. Keep an eye out for the colorful Northern Cardinal, the iconic Gila Woodpecker, and the swift Gambel’s Quail.
Weather in December
The average weather in December in Saguaro National Park is mild and dry, with highs of 63°F (17°C) and lows of 48°F (9°C).
Best Things to do Saguaro National Park
Hike Wasson Peak: Wasson Peak, in the Tucson Mountain Range of Saguaro National Park, stands as the highest point at 4,687ft. While several trails lead to the summit, the 7.9-mile Hugh Norris Trail loop is a favored route.
Signal Hill Trail: Stretching just 0.3 miles, this loop trail is where you’ll get to see striking saguaro cacti clusters and Native American petroglyphs.
Scenic Drives with Panoramic Views: If hiking isn’t your forte, fret not. The park offers picturesque drives, including the Cactus Forest Loop Drive and the Bajada Loop Drive. These routes provide unparalleled views of the saguaro-studded landscape.
Know Before You Go
Choose your footwear wisely: If walking is on your agenda, steer clear of open-toed options, as the desert terrain is notorious for its prickliness. Trust us, you don’t want to end up with a Cholla cactus spine embedded in your foot!
Beware of wildlife: The Sonoran Desert is teeming with six species of rattlesnakes, and it’s not just them—mountain lions, scorpions, spiders, and centipedes also call this place home. None of these animals are looking to start a fight, but it’s always good to be aware of them.
Learn more about Saguaro National Park
Blog posts
Hiking Wasson Peak at Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona
The BEST Things to do in Saguaro National Park West
YouTube video
One Day at Saguaro National Park (West) 🌵 | Hiking Wasson Peak, Valley View Overlook, & more!
About the author
This monthly national park series was written by our writer Nicoll, using our monthly lists and incorporating our experiences at each park. Learn a bit about her below!
I’m Nicoll, an adventurous soul fueled by hiking, dirt biking, and traveling. When I’m not busy crafting captivating tales, you’ll find me exploring the world alongside my partner-in-adventure, Jake. Back in 2019, our insatiable wanderlust led us to embrace the nomadic lifestyle with our fearless pack of canine sidekicks, including a mid-content wolf dog. You can catch my adventures and musings on livingtinywithawolf.com.
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